Chapter 23: A Girl

As Ryu wandered the streets of the town, trying to avoid drawing attention to himself, he stumbled upon a young girl in need. She was lost and scared, wandering aimlessly through the crowded market.

Ryu couldn't help but feel a twinge of compassion for the girl. He knew what it was like to be lost and alone, with no one to turn to. Without thinking, he approached her and asked if she needed help.

The girl looked up at him with big, tearful eyes, and nodded. Ryu took her hand and led her to a nearby park, where they sat down on a bench.

He learned that her name was Mina and that she had run away from home after an argument with her parents. Ryu listened as she poured out her heart, telling him about her dreams and fears.

For the first time in a long time, Ryu felt a sense of connection with someone. He had always been a loner, but being with Mina made him feel like he wasn't alone in the world.

As the sun began to set, Ryu realized that he needed to find a place to stay for the night. He asked Mina if she wanted to come with him, and she nodded eagerly.

Together, they found a small, run-down inn that offered a cheap room for the night. Ryu paid for the room with the little money he had saved from his time in prison and settled in for the night with Mina by his side.

As they lay in bed, Ryu couldn't help but think about how much his life had changed in such a short amount of time. He had gone from being a merciless fighter to a fugitive on the run, and now he had a young girl in his care.

But despite the uncertainty of his future, Ryu felt a sense of hope. For the first time in a long time, he had a purpose, someone to protect and care for. And that was enough to keep him going, no matter what lay ahead.